GSI celebrates 175th Foundation Day with digital initiatives and strategic collaborations
Times of India | 5 March 2025
KOLKATA: The Geological Survey of India (GSI) marked its 175th Foundation Day with a grand ceremony at its Central Headquarters in Kolkata.
The event was graced by Union minister of Coal & Mines, G. Kishan Reddy, who launched two significant digital initiatives—the Field Data Acquisition App and the Geo-heritage App ‘Bhuvirasat’ on March 4.
These initiatives aim to enhance data collection efficiency and promote awareness of India’s rich geo-heritage.
In a major step towards boosting mineral exploration, GSI handed over ‘Regional Mineral Targeting’ projects to private exploration agencies, fostering public-private collaboration. Dr. Joyesh Bagchi, ADG (PSS), GSI, presented a strategic roadmap on Critical Mineral Exploration Strategy, emphasizing the importance of securing minerals vital for India’s green energy transition.
A celebration of legacy and achievements
The event showcased GSI’s rich legacy and contributions through a series of activities. Reddy visited the Map Gallery and various exhibitions, which included a working model of a drilling rig, an art exhibition, and displays on GSI’s mineral exploration and research advancements.
He also commended the stalls of Coal India Limited, Hindustan Copper Limited, Esri India, Datacode, IIT-ISM, Jadavpur University, and Presidency University.
In his address, Reddy praised GSI’s critical role in mineral resource exploration, landslide risk management, and its contributions to India’s self-reliance in mineral resources. He highlighted GSI’s alignment with the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, focusing on sustainable development and resource security.
The celebration commenced with Reddy planting a sapling, symbolising GSI’s commitment to environmental conservation. A commemorative plaque was unveiled to honour GSI’s 175-year journey.
Key highlights of the event included the release of a video documenting GSI’s historic milestones, the launch of a special publication on Gondwana Basins on the Indian Subcontinent, and the unveiling of a commemorative postal cover by India Post.
Distinguished guests and technical sessions
The program was attended by prominent figures such as P.M. Prasad, CMD, Coal India Ltd; Ghanashyam Sharma, CMD, Hindustan Copper Ltd; Yashodhara Ray Chaudhuri, additional deputy C&AG (Mines); A.D. Chaudhary, director, Indian Museum; along with Asit Saha, director general, GSI; Dr. Joydeep Guha, ADG & HoD, GSI; Dr. Joyesh Bagchi, ADG (PSS), GSI; and other senior officials and retired GSI employees.
The ceremony also featured award distributions for winners of various drawing competitions designed to inspire young minds towards geosciences. A technical session in the afternoon included a lecture by Prof. Dhrubajyoti Mukhopadhyay, FNA, FNASc, on the evolution of geosciences in India.
Additionally, a debate competition for university students on Harnessing Natural Resources While Protecting the Environment sparked vibrant discussions on balancing development with conservation.
Eminent ex-GSI scientists shared insightful reminiscences, reflecting on GSI’s remarkable contributions to geosciences and its vision for the future. The event concluded on a celebratory note with the felicitation of outstanding employees with ‘Certificates of Appreciation’ for their exemplary service and commitment.
The 175th Foundation Day celebrations not only underscored GSI’s historic contributions to mineral exploration and geosciences but also highlighted its forward-looking approach through digital transformation and strategic partnerships.
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